Percussive massage device and method of use

ABSTRACT

A percussive massage device that includes a housing, an electrical source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. The housing includes first, second and third handle portions that cooperate to define a handle opening, wherein the first handle portion defines a first axis, the second handle portion defines a second axis and the third handle portion defines a third axis, and wherein the first, second and third axes cooperate to form a triangle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/675,772, filed Nov. 6, 2019, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 16/357,984, filed Mar. 19, 2019, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/920,322, filed onMar. 13, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,357,425, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/458,920,filed on Mar. 14, 2017. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/675,772 alsoclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/785,151, filed on Dec. 26, 2018, U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 62/844,424, filed on May 7, 2019, and U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/899,098, filed on Sep. 11, 2019. All applicationslisted above are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to massage devices and moreparticularly to a vibrating massage device or percussive massage devicethat provides reciprocating motion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Massage devices often provide ineffective massages that are superficialand do not provide any real benefit. Accordingly, there is a need for animproved massage device.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there isprovided a method of using a percussive massage device that includesobtaining the percussive massage device that includes a housing havingfirst, second and third handle portions that cooperate to define ahandle opening, an electrical source, a motor positioned in the housing,a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operativelyconnected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response toactivation of the motor. The method also includes activating the motorusing the switch, grasping the first handle portion, massaging a firstbody part, alternatively grasping the second handle portion andmassaging the first body part, and alternatively grasping the thirdhandle portion and massaging the first body part. In a preferredembodiment, the first handle portion defines a first axis, the secondhandle portion defines a second axis and the third handle portiondefines a third axis, and the first, second and third axes cooperate toform a triangle. In a preferred embodiment, the method also includesgrasping the second handle portion, massaging a second body part,grasping the third handle portion, and massaging a third body part.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided percussive massage device that includes a housing, anelectrical source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch foractivating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected tothe motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of themotor. In a preferred embodiment, the housing includes first, second andthird handle portions that cooperate to define a handle opening, whereinthe first handle portion defines a first axis, the second handle portiondefines a second axis and the third handle portion defines a third axis,and wherein the first, second and third axes cooperate to form atriangle.

Preferably, the first handle portion includes a first handle portioninterior edge and defines a first handle portion length and the firsthandle portion length is long enough that when a user grasps the firsthandle portion with a hand at least a portion of three fingers extendthrough the handle opening and contact the first handle portion interioredge. Preferably, the second handle portion includes a second handleportion interior edge and defines a second handle portion length and thesecond handle portion length is long enough that when a user grasps thesecond handle portion with a hand at least a portion of three fingersextend through the handle opening and contact the second handle portioninterior edge. Preferably, the third handle portion includes a thirdhandle portion interior edge and defines a third handle portion lengthand the third handle portion length is long enough that when a usergrasps the third handle portion with a hand at least a portion of threefingers extend through the handle opening and contact the third handleportion interior edge. In a preferred embodiment, the first handleportion is generally straight, the second handle portion is generallystraight and the third handle portion is generally straight. Generallystraight means that the majority of the handle portion is straight, butcan include rounded edges or corners where the different handle portionsmeet or where the handle portions meet the bulge portion or the fingerprotrusion, etc.

In a preferred embodiment, the switch includes switch electronicsassociated therewith, the electrical source is a battery that is housedin the second handle portion and the switch electronics are housed inthe first handle portion. Preferably, the motor is configured to rotatea pinion shaft having a pinion gear thereon about a shaft rotation axis.The housing includes a gear member disposed therein that is operativelyengaged with the pinion gear and rotates about a gear rotation axis. Thepush rod assembly is operatively connected to the gear member, androtational motion of the pinion shaft is converted to reciprocatingmotion of the push rod assembly through the engagement of the piniongear and the gear member. The motor includes a motor shaft extendingoutwardly therefrom and a pinion coupling assembly is positioned betweenthe motor shaft and the pinion shaft. The pinion coupling includes alower connector that is operatively connected to the motor shaft, anupper connector that is operatively connected to the pinion shaft, and across coupling positioned between the lower connector and the upperconnector. In a preferred embodiment, the lower connector includes amain body portion that defines a central opening that receives the motorshaft and first and second lower connector arms extending outwardly fromthe main body portion, the upper connector includes a main body portionthat defines a central opening that receives the pinion shaft and firstand second upper connector arms extending outwardly from the main bodyportion, the cross coupling includes radially extending ribs, and thefirst and second lower connector members and the first and second upperconnector members operatively engage the radially extending ribs.Preferably, the lower and upper connectors comprise a plastic and thecross coupling comprises an elastomer.

In a preferred embodiment, the gear member is disposed in a rotationhousing that is rotatable between at least first and second positions. Agearbox housing that houses the gear member is disposed in the rotationhousing. The gearbox housing includes a clearance slot having first andsecond ends defined therein. The push rod assembly extends through theclearance slot, such that when the rotation housing is rotated from thefirst position to the second position the push rod assembly moves withinthe clearance slot from adjacent the first end to adjacent the secondend.

In a preferred embodiment, the push rod assembly includes a first rodportion having a proximal end and a distal end and a second rod portionhaving a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the firstrod portion is operatively connected to the motor. An adapter assemblyis positioned between the first and second rod portions. The adapterassembly allows the first rod portion to pivot with respect to thesecond rod portion. Preferably, the adapter assembly includes an adaptermember that includes a pocket that receives the distal end of the firstrod portion therein. A pivot pin spans the pocket and extends throughthe distal end of the first rod portion. In a preferred embodiment, theadapter member includes a protrusion that is received in the proximalend of the second rod portion.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a massage device that includes a housing, an electrical input,a motor, a switch in electrical communication with the electrical inputand the motor and configured to selectively provide power from theelectrical input to the motor, an actuated output operatively connectedto the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation ofthe motor, and a treatment structure operatively connected to a distalend of the actuated output. The actuated output is configured toreciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of between about 15Hz and about 100 Hz, and at an amplitude of between about 0.15 and about1.0 inches. The combination of amplitude and frequency providesefficient reciprocation of the treatment structure such that thetreatment structure provides therapeutically beneficial treatment to atargeted muscle of a user.

In a preferred embodiment, the actuated output is configured toreciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of between about 25Hz and about 48 Hz, and at an amplitude of between about 0.23 and about0.70 inches. In another preferred embodiment, the actuated output isconfigured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency ofbetween about 33 Hz and about 42 Hz, and at an amplitude of betweenabout 0.35 and about 0.65 inches.

In a preferred embodiment, the motor is configured to rotate a shafthaving a shaft gear thereon about a shaft rotation axis. The housingincludes a gear member disposed therein that is operatively engaged withthe shaft gear and rotates about a gear rotation axis. The actuatedoutput is operatively connected to the gear member, and the rotationalmotion of the shaft is converted to reciprocating motion of the actuatedoutput through the engagement of the shaft gear and the gear member.Preferably, the gear rotation axis is perpendicular to the shaftrotation axis and an eccentric interface is disposed on the gear memberat a location other than the gear rotation axis. Preferably, the devicefurther includes a reciprocator shaft operatively connected to theeccentric interface, and a containment member. A head of thereciprocator shaft is contained by the containment member to restrictmotion of the reciprocator shaft to a linear motion that isperpendicular to the gear rotation axis. In a preferred embodiment, thegear member comprises a counterweight disposed on the gear member, andthe center of mass of the counterweight is not on the gear rotationaxis. Preferably, the head of the reciprocator shaft includes anelongated opening therein, the eccentric interface includes a pin, andthe pin is configured to move within the elongated opening as the gearmember rotates.

In a preferred embodiment, the massage device includes a rotationhousing. The main housing includes a rotation space defined therein. Therotation housing includes a main body portion disposed in the housingand an arm portion extending through the rotation space and outside thehousing, wherein the actuated output extends outwardly from the armportion, and the rotation housing can rotate within the rotation spacebetween a plurality of positions. Preferably, the massage deviceincludes a button extending outwardly from the housing that is movablebetween a first position and a second position. The button includes aplurality of teeth members. The housing includes a plurality of firstteeth spaces defined therein and the rotation housing includes aplurality of second teeth spaces defined therein. When the button is inthe first position the teeth members engage the first teeth spaces andthe rotation housing cannot rotate. When the button is in the secondposition (when it is pressed in and overcomes the spring bias) the teethmembers engage the second teeth spaces and the rotation housing canrotate.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a reciprocating treatment device that includes a housing, ahandle disposed on the housing, the handle having a handle axis, a motordisposed in the housing, and an actuated output operably connected tothe motor. The actuated output is configured to reciprocate in responseto activation of the motor. The reciprocation is along a reciprocationaxis. The motor includes a shaft having a shaft rotation axis, and theshaft rotation axis lies in a plane defined by the handle axis and thereciprocation axis (they are all coplanar).

In a preferred embodiment, the reciprocating treatment device includes agearbox to convert rotary motion from the shaft to reciprocal motion atthe actuated output. Preferably, the gearbox includes a gear memberhaving a gear rotation axis perpendicular to the shaft rotation axis,and an eccentric interface disposed on the gear at a location other thanthe gear rotation axis. The device also includes a reciprocator shaftoperatively connected to the eccentric interface, and a reciprocatorinterface configured to restrict linear motion of the reciprocator shaftto a direction parallel to the reciprocation axis and perpendicular tothe gear rotation axis. The gear member preferably includes acounterweight disposed on the gear member. The center of mass of thecounterweight is not on the gear rotation axis.

In a preferred embodiment, the counterweight has a mass similar to thecomponents of the reciprocating treatment device that reciprocate alongthe reciprocation axis. Preferably, the counterweight has a mass between45 grams and 55 grams. In a preferred embodiment, the gearbox isconnected to a compliant dampening block and the compliant dampeningblock is connected to the housing. Preferably, the compliant dampeningblock comprises a polymer. In a preferred embodiment, the shaft isoperably connected with the gearbox through a compliant shaft damper.

An embodiment provides a reciprocal treatment device. The reciprocaltreatment device includes a housing, a motor connected to the housing,and an actuated output. The housing includes a handle located on thehousing. The handle has a handle axis. The actuated output is operablyconnected to the motor. The actuated output is configured to reciprocatein response to activation of the motor. Reciprocation of the actuatedoutput is along a reciprocation axis. The motor includes a shaft havinga shaft rotation axis. The shaft rotation axis is parallel to a plane inwhich the handle axis and the reciprocation axis are located. Otherembodiments of a reciprocal treatment device are also described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be more readily understood by referring to theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a cutaway side view of one embodiment of a reciprocatingtreatment device;

FIG. 2 depicts a side view of one embodiment of the reciprocatingtreatment device of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A and 3B depict perspective views of embodiments of actuationcomponents the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 depicts a side view of one embodiment of actuation components ofthe reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart diagram showing one embodiment of a method ofmanufacture of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart diagram showing one embodiment of a method ofuse of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a reciprocating treatment device inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the reciprocating treatment device ofFIG. 7 with a portion of the housing removed to show the motor andactuation components;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the reciprocatingtreatment device of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the motor and actuation componentsof the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11A depicts the reciprocator shaft in the extended position;

FIG. 11B depicts the reciprocator shaft between the extended andretracted positions;

FIG. 11C depicts the reciprocator shaft in the retracted position;

FIG. 11D depicts the reciprocator shaft between the extended andretracted positions;

FIG. 11E depicts the reciprocator shaft in the extended position, butafter being rotated relative to FIGS. 11A-11D;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the components associatedwith the rotation of the arm;

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view with the rotation housing andactuated output rotated to a vertical position (compare to thehorizontal position in FIG. 7);

FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of a percussive massage device inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14A is another side elevational view of the percussive massagedevice of FIG. 14;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the percussive massage device;

FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage deviceshowing a user grasping the first handle portion;

FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage deviceshowing a user grasping the third handle portion;

FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage deviceshowing a user grasping the second handle portion;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the percussive massagedevice;

FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the drive traincomponents of the percussive massage device;

FIG. 21 is another an exploded perspective view of a portion of thepercussive massage device;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the drive train components of thepercussive massage device;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the push rod assembly of the percussivemassage device;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another percussive massage device;

FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device ofFIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage deviceshowing some internal components in hidden lines;

FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of some of the internalcomponents of the percussive massage device;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another percussive massage device; and

FIG. 29 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device ofFIG. 28.

Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of thedrawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not tobe construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certaininstances, well-known or conventional details are not described in orderto avoid obscuring the description. References to one or anotherembodiment in the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are,references to the same embodiment; and, such references mean at leastone of the embodiments.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment”means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the disclosure. Appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” invarious places in the specification do not necessarily refer to the sameembodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutuallyexclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are describedwhich may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly,various requirements are described which may be requirements for someembodiments but not other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinarymeanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in thespecific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used todescribe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in thespecification, to provide additional guidance to the practitionerregarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certainterms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotationmarks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaningof a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the samecontext, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be appreciated thatthe same thing can be said in more than one way.

Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any oneor more of the terms discussed herein. Nor is any special significanceto be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussedherein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one ormore synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use ofexamples anywhere in this specification including examples of any termsdiscussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to furtherlimit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplifiedterm. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodimentsgiven in this specification.

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples ofinstruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according tothe embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note thattitles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of areader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unlessotherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein havethe same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in theart to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, thepresent document, including definitions, will control.

It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,”“bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” and “below” used hereinare merely for ease of description and refer to the orientation of thecomponents as shown in the figures. It should be understood that anyorientation of the components described herein is within the scope ofthe present invention.

While many embodiments are described herein, at least some of thedescribed embodiments provide an apparatus, system, and method for areciprocating treatment device.

FIGS. 1-12 show embodiments of a reciprocating treatment device 100.FIGS. 1-4 show the device in schematic form and FIGS. 7-12 show thedevice 100 in more detail.

FIG. 1 depicts a cutaway side view of one embodiment of a reciprocatingtreatment device 100. Reference is also made to FIGS. 7-8. Thereciprocating treatment device 100 includes a housing 101, a power input102, a switch 104, a motor 106, and an actuated output 108. Thereciprocating treatment device 100, in some embodiments, generatesmotion at the actuated output 108 for treating a patient.

The housing 101, in one embodiment, is a structure allowing forconnection of one or more other components of the reciprocatingtreatment device 100. The housing 101 may completely or substantiallyenclose one or more other components. For example, the housing 101 maybe a formed structure with attachment points for other components thatsubstantially encloses one or more of those components when assembled.In another embodiment, the housing 101 may allow other components to beexposed. For example, the housing 101 may be an open frame. In someembodiments, the housing 101 encloses one or more components of thereciprocating treatment device 101 and leaves one or more othercomponents of the reciprocating treatment device 101 exposed.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 6 and 7, the housing 101 includes a handle 120. Thehandle 120 defines a handle axis 122 that runs substantially along thelongest dimension of the handle 120. In some embodiments, the handle 120is straight or substantially straight along its longest dimension, andthe handle axis 122 runs through the center or substantially through thecenter of the handle 120. In another embodiment, the handle 120 iscurved along its longest dimension, and the handle axis 122 is tangentto the curvature of the handle 120 at the midpoint of the handle 120. Ina preferred embodiment, the handle 120 has a top surface 120 a that isshaped that it can be ergonomically gripped by a persons palm. Thisprovides comfort for a user when operating the device. See, for example,U.S. Pat. No. 6,105,891, the entirety of which is incorporated herein byreference, which teaches a fishing reel knob that includes a similarshape that conforms to the user's palm. As shown in FIG. 7, the housing101 includes the handle 120, a rear portion 121, and a lower portion 123that includes an upwardly angled neck 125, that extends toward the bulgeportion 150. The handle 120, rear portion 121, and lower portion 123(including the neck 125) define a central opening 127

The power input 102, in some embodiments, is configured to receive apower input from a power source 114. The power source 114 may be anytype of power source capable of supplying power to the motor 106. In oneembodiment, the power input 102 receives an electrical input from thepower source 114. For example, the power source 114 may be a batterythat provides electrical current. In one embodiment, the battery is arechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the battery is attachable tothe reciprocating treatment device 100 such that the reciprocatingtreatment device 100 including the power source 114 is portable andcordless. In an alternative embodiment, the reciprocating treatmentdevice 100 uses an external battery pack as a power source 114.

The battery may be any type of battery known in the art. For example,the battery may include a rechargeable lithium-ion (LiIon) basedbattery. In another example, the battery may include a rechargeablenickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery. In yet another example, the batterymay include a rechargeable lithium-polymer (LiPo) battery. In someembodiments, the battery includes a nickel-cadmium (NiCad) battery. Inone embodiment, the battery uses a non-rechargeable battery.

In an alternative embodiment, the power input 102 includes a cord toreceive power from an electrical grid. For example, the reciprocatingtreatment device 100 may include a cord with a plug configured tointerface with a wall socket to provide power.

In another alternative embodiment, the power input 102 isnon-electrical. For example, the power input 102 may receive pressurizedair from a pressure vessel or a network of pressurized air. In anotherembodiment, the power input 102 may include one or more reactivematerials to provide energy for operation of the reciprocating treatmentdevice 100.

The switch 104, in some embodiments, controls delivery of power to themotor 106. The switch 104 may be an electrical switch configured toallow passage of electric current when activated. In some embodiments,the switch 104 is a binary on/off switch. In another embodiment, theswitch 104 is a variable switch. A variable switch controls the amountof power delivered to the motor 106. A relatively high amount of powerdelivered to the motor 106 by the variable switch 104 results in anincreased speed of the motor 106. Are relatively low amount of powerdelivered to the motor 106 by the variable switch 104 results in adecreased speed of the motor 106. In one embodiment, the variable switch104 includes a variable resistor that allows a progressively increasedamount of power to flow to the motor 106 in response to a progressivelyincreasing activation of that switch 104.

In some embodiments, the switch 104 may remain in an activated positionin response to a user releasing the switch 104. In an alternateembodiment, the switch 104 may return to a deactivated position inresponse to a user releasing the switch 104. For example, the switch 104may include a biasing member such as a spring configured to push theswitch 104 to the deactivated position in response to the switch 104being released.

In certain embodiments, the switch 104 includes multiple positions. Forexample, the switch 104 may include an off position, a first activatedposition, and a second activated position. The switch 104 may includeone or more positions in which without additional user input, the switch104 remains in that position, and one or more positions in which withoutadditional user input, the switch 104 is biased to exit that position.

For example, the switch 104 may have an “off” position, an “on”position, and a “turbo” position. The “on” and “turbo” positions mayactivate reciprocation at different rates, such as 2300 cycles perminute in the “on” position and 2800 cycles per minute in the “turbo”position. Upon being set to the “on” position, the switch 104 may remainin the “on” position without requiring the user to maintain contact withthe switch 104. Upon being set to the “turbo” position, the switch 104may be biased to return to the “on” position unless the user maintains aforce on the switch 104 that opposes a return to the “on” position.

The motor 106, in one embodiment, converts power from the power source102 into motion. In some embodiments, the motor 106 is an electricmotor. The electric motor may be any type of electric motor known in theart, including, but not limited to, a brushed motor, a brushless motor,a direct current (DC) motor, an alternating current (AC) motor, amechanical-commutator motor, an electronic commutator motor, or anexternally commutated motor.

In some embodiments, the motor 106 operates at a speed that can bevaried by different levels of activation of the switch 104. For example,the motor 106 may operate at a maximum rate in response to a maximumactivation of the switch 104. The motor 106 may operate at a lower ratein response to a less than maximum activation of the switch 104.

The motor 106 may produce rotary motion. The rotary motion delivered bythe motor 106 may be delivered through a shaft 116. The shaft 116 mayrotate around a shaft axis 126. In some embodiments, the reciprocatingtreatment device 100 may include a linkage to convert the rotary motionof the motor 106 into reciprocating motion. An embodiment of a linkageis shown in greater detail in relation to FIGS. 3A, 3B and 8-10 below.

In an alternative embodiment, the motor 106 may produce reciprocatingmotion. For example, the motor 106 may include a reciprocating pneumaticcylinder that reciprocates in response to an input of compressed air.

The actuated output 108, in some embodiments, reciprocates in responseto an input from the motor 106. For example, the motor 106 may producerotary motion. A gearbox may be connected to the motor 106 to convertthe rotary motion to reciprocating motion. The gearbox may be connectedto the actuated output 108. An embodiment of the gearbox is shown ingreater detail in relation to FIGS. 4 and 8-10 below.

In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 reciprocates at a rate ofapproximately 65 Hz. The actuated output 108, in some embodiments,reciprocates at a rate over 50 Hz. The reciprocating treatment device100, in some embodiments, provides reciprocation at a rate rangingbetween 50 Hz and 80 Hz. In some embodiments, the actuated output 108has a maximum articulation rate of between 50 Hz and 80 Hz. In anotherembodiment, the actuated output 108 has an articulation rate of between30 Hz and 80 Hz. In certain embodiments, the actuated output 108 has anarticulation rate of approximately 37 Hz. In one embodiment, theactuated output 108 has an articulation rate of approximately 60 Hz. Ina preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates orreciprocates at a frequency of between about 15 Hz and about 100 Hz. Ina more preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates orreciprocates at a frequency of between about 25 Hz and about 48 Hz. Inthe most preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates orreciprocates at a frequency of between about 33 Hz and about 42 Hz. Anychosen range within the specified ranges is within the scope of thepresent invention.

The actuated output 108 may move through a predetermined range ofreciprocation. For example, the actuated output 108 may be configured tohave an amplitude of one half inch. In another embodiment, the actuatedoutput 108 may be configured to have an amplitude of one quarter inch.As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the actuated output108 may be configured to have any amplitude deemed therapeuticallybeneficial.

In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 may be adjustable through avariable range of reciprocation. For example, the reciprocatingtreatment device 100 may include an input to adjust the reciprocationamplitude from one quarter of an inch through a range of up to one inch.In a preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 moves through anamplitude of between about 0.15 inches and about 1.0 inches. In a morepreferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates orreciprocates at a frequency of between about 0.23 inches and about 0.70inches. In the most preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of between about 0.35 inchesand about 0.65 inches. Any chosen range within the specified ranges iswithin the scope of the present invention.

It will be appreciated that the device operates most effectively withinthe combined frequency and amplitude ranges. When developing theinvention, the inventor determined that if the frequency and amplitudeare above the ranges set forth above the device can cause pain and belowthe ranges the device is ineffective and does not provide effectivetherapeutic relief or massage. Only when the device operates within thedisclosed combination of frequency and amplitude ranges does it provideefficient and therapeutically beneficial treatment to the musclestargeted by the device.

In certain embodiments, the reciprocating treatment device 100 includesone or more components to regulate the articulation rate of the actuatedoutput 108 in response to varying levels of power provided at the powerinput 102. For example, the reciprocating treatment device 100 mayinclude a voltage regulator (not shown) to provide a substantiallyconstant voltage to the motor 106 over a range of input voltages. Inanother embodiment, the current provided to the motor 106 may beregulated. In some embodiments, operation of the reciprocating treatmentdevice 100 may be restricted in response to an input voltage being belowa preset value.

In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 includes a connector 110for connection of an attachment. In some embodiments, the actuatedoutput 108 includes a securing mechanism 112 for securing an attachmentin the connection socket 110. The connector 110 may be any type ofstructure capable of retaining an attachment, such as a socket with alatch, a threaded connector, or the like.

For example, the securing mechanism 112 may include a biased structure,such as a spring, to bias the securing mechanism 112 toward a lockedposition. In the locked position, the securing mechanism 112 mayrestrict removal of an attachment. The biased structure may bearticulated by a user to move the securing mechanism 112 toward anunlocked position. In the unlocked position, the securing mechanism 112may allow removal of an attachment.

In some embodiments, the securing mechanism 112 includes a keyway tointeract with a key on an attachment. The keyway may be selectivelyopened and closed by articulation of the securing mechanism 112. Removalof an attachment may be restricted in response to the keyway beingclosed.

As shown in FIG. 9, in another embodiment, the connector 110 can be amale connector and can include at least one (and preferably two)outwardly biased ball bearings 110 a that mate with the treatmentstructure 204.

In certain embodiments, the actuated output 108 reciprocates along alinear or substantially linear path. The path traveled by the actuatedoutput 108 defines a reciprocation axis 124. In certain embodiments, thereciprocation axis 124 runs through the geometric center of one or morecomponents of the actuated output 108.

The actuated output 108, in some embodiments, includes a safetyextension 128 between a portion of the housing 101 and a protrudingportion, such as the connection mechanism 112. The safety extension 128provides a region of the actuated output 108 with a substantiallyconstant cross-sectional profile. The safety extension 128 reduces therisk of pinching a body part, such as a finger, as the actuated output108 actuates. The safety extension 128 may be defined as the region ofthe actuated output 108 between any non-reciprocating component, such asthe housing 101, and any component of the actuated output 108 that has arelatively large or extending cross section, such as the connectionmechanism. In one embodiment, the length of the safety extension 128along the reciprocation axis 124, when measured when the actuated output108 is fully retracted, is larger than the width of any of an averageuser's fingers. In some embodiments, the length of the safety extension128 along the reciprocation axis 124, when measured when the actuatedoutput 108 is fully retracted, is at least 18 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the motor 106 is connected to the housing 101 suchthat the shaft rotation axis 126 is parallel to a plane defined by thehandle axis 122 and the reciprocation axis 124. In one embodiment, themotor 106 is connected to the housing 101 such that the shaft rotationaxis 126 is coplanar with a plane defined by the handle axis 122 and thereciprocation axis 124.

FIG. 2 depicts a side view of one embodiment of the reciprocatingtreatment device 100 of FIG. 1. The reciprocating treatment device 100includes an attachment 202, a treatment structure 204, and a restsurface 206. The reciprocating treatment device 100, in one embodiment,generates reciprocating motion at the treatment structure 204 fortreating a patient.

The attachment 202 may be an interchangeable, user selectable componentthat is connectable to the actuated output 108. The attachment 202 mayinclude a treatment structure 204 designed to interact with a patient.

The rest surface 206 is a surface disposed on the housing 101. The restsurface 206 is configured such that when the reciprocating treatmentdevice 100 has the rest surface 206 placed on a flat, horizontalsurface, the reciprocating treatment device 100 is capable of resting inthat position without application of an external force. In other words,when resting as described above, a line drawn downward from a center ofgravity of the reciprocating treatment device 100 passes through therest surface 206. As used in this paragraph, “downward” refers to adirection in which gravity applies a force to objects having mass.

FIGS. 3A, 3B and 8-11E depict views of embodiments of the actuationcomponents 300 for the reciprocating treatment device 100. The actuationcomponents 300 generally include the motor 106, a compliant shaft damper302, a shaft 116 with a shaft gear 117 thereon, a gear member 304, aneccentric interface 306, a reciprocator interface 308, a reciprocatorshaft 310, and an actuated output 108. The motor 106, the shaft 116, andthe actuated output 108 are similar to like-numbered componentsdescribed above in relation to FIG. 1. The actuation components 300create motion that is delivered at the actuated output 108.

In one embodiment, rotary motion is delivered from the motor 106 via theshaft 116 and gear 107. In certain embodiments, the motor 106 isconnected to other components of the actuation components 300 by acompliant shaft damper 302. The compliant shaft damper 302 comprises acompliant material configured to absorb vibration generated by theactuation components 300. The compliant shaft damper 302 may transmitrotary motion generated by the motor 106 while deforming under vibrationloads, thus absorbing or partially absorbing and reducing vibration inthe reciprocating treatment device 100.

The compliant shaft damper 302 may include any material capable ofabsorbing vibration. In some embodiments, the compliant shaft damper 302includes a polymer. For example, the compliant shaft damper 302 mayinclude a flexible polymer. In one example, the compliant shaft damper302 includes polyurethane foam, thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”),including but not limited to Styrenic block copolymers (TPE-s),Polyolefin blends (TPE-o), Elastomeric alloys (TPE-v or TPV),Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), Thermoplastic copolyester, orThermoplastic polyamide. In another example, the compliant shaft damper302 may include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low durometer PVC, or aurethane.

The gear member 304, in one embodiment, receives rotary motion generatedby the motor 106. In some embodiments, the gear member 304 rotates inresponse to rotation of the motor 106. In one embodiment, the gearmember 304 rotates around a rotation axis 316 that is perpendicular to ashaft rotation axis 126. For example, the gear member 304 may be part ofa bevel gear, a spiral bevel gear, or a hypoid gear. Such gears may havethe effect of rotating an axis of rotation by 90 degrees.

In some embodiments, the gear member 304 includes an eccentric interface306. The eccentric interface 306 is disposed on a surface of the gearmember 304 such that it or its center is at a location not on the gearrotation axis 316. In other words, if the gear member 304 is round, theeccentric interface 306 is not disposed at the center of the gear member304.

In response to rotation of the gear member 304 and subsequent motion ofthe eccentric interface 306, the reciprocator interface 308 restrictslinear motion of the eccentric interface 306 relative to thereciprocator interface 308 to a direction perpendicular to both thereciprocation axis 124 and the gear rotation axis 316. In other words,the eccentric interface 306 is free to slide side-to-side within thereciprocator interface 308 as the gear member 304 rotates. Note that thein addition to sliding relative to the reciprocator interface 308, theeccentric interface 306 may rotate.

As shown in FIG. 9, in a preferred embodiment, the eccentric interface306 includes a pin 22 and sleeve 24. The pin 22 is received in anoff-center opening 26 defined in or through the gear member 304. Thesleeve 24 is received in an elongated opening 34 that is defined in anend or head 36 of the reciprocator shaft 310.

The eccentric interface 306, in one embodiment, interfaces with areciprocator interface or containment member 308. The containment member308 contains the head 36 of the reciprocator shaft 310 and defines areciprocation space 38 in which the head 36 of the reciprocator shaft310 and the eccentric interface components 306 can reciprocate. Thecontainment member 308 includes legs 40 that each include an interiorsurface that defines a step 42 therein. The larger dimension between thelegs defines a space for the head 36 to reciprocate and the smallerdimension between the legs defines a space for the sleeve toreciprocate. In a preferred embodiment, the reciprocator shaft 310 isL-shaped or includes an arm portion so that it connects to the actuatedoutput or shaft 108 along the reciprocation axis.

In some embodiments, the effect of the interaction between the eccentricinterface 306 and the reciprocator interface 308 is to convert rotarymotion at the gear member 304 to reciprocating, linear motion at thereciprocator shaft 310. The reciprocator shaft 310 transmitsreciprocating, linear motion to the actuated output 108.

As shown in FIGS. 3B and 9, in one embodiment, the gear member 304includes a counterweight 312. The counterweight 312 is configured tooppose inertial forces generated by the reciprocating motion of theactuated output 108. The counterweight 312 may be positioned on the gearmember 304 such that its center of mass 314 is not located along thegear rotation axis 316. In certain embodiments, a first direction fromthe gear rotation axis 316 to the center of mass 314 of thecounterweight 312 may be the opposite direction from a second directionfrom the gear rotation axis 316 to the center of the eccentric interface306. Preferably, the counterweight 312 is located on one side of thegear member 304 and the gear teeth are located on the opposite side. Inanother embodiment, the gear and counterweight can be separate parts.

In some embodiments, as the reciprocating treatment device 100 operates,the counterweight 312 applies at least a component of force in theopposite direction to a reaction force applied to the eccentricinterface 306 by the reciprocator interface 308. In other words, thecounterweight 312 may serve to counteract an inertial force generated byreciprocating components and reduce vibration caused by reciprocalmotion of the actuated output 108.

In some embodiments, the counterweight 312 may be sized to matchreciprocating components of the reciprocating treatment device 100. Forexample, the counterweight 312 may have a mass similar to reciprocatingcomponents, including, for example, the reciprocator shaft 310, theactuated output 108, and an attachment 202. In another embodiment, thecounterweight has a mass between 45 grams and 55 grams.

FIG. 11A shows the reciprocator shaft 310 in the extended position andFIG. 11C shows the reciprocator shaft 310 in the retracted position.FIGS. 11B and 11D show the reciprocator shaft in between the retractedand extended positions. Note how the pin 22 and sleeve 24 (eccentricinterface) move within elongated opening 34 and the containment member308 keeps the head 36 of the reciprocator shaft 310 moving linearly.FIG. 11E shows the reciprocator shaft 310 in the extended position, butafter the rotation assembly 47 has been rotated, as discussed below.

As shown in FIGS. 8-10, the actuation components 300 include a guidemember 30 that includes a central opening through which the reciprocatorshaft 310 extends. The guide member 30 is housed in the rotation housing44 and remains stationary as the reciprocator shaft moves therein. In apreferred embodiment, the actuation components 300 also include a pin oraxle 16 on which the gear member 304 rotates a bearing 14 and adampening ring 28 for damping the connection between the housing and themetal components.

FIGS. 4 and 8-11E depict embodiments of actuation components 300 of thereciprocating treatment device 100. The actuation components include themotor 106, the gear member 304, the reciprocator shaft 310, one or morecompliant dampening blocks 402 and, a gearbox 404. The actuationcomponents 300 provide reciprocating motion through the reciprocatorshaft 310 and manage vibration transmitted to the housing 101.

The one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 manage vibrationconducted from the actuation components 300 to the housing 101. The oneor more compliant dampening blocks 402 may be disposed between theactuation components 300 and the housing 101.

The one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 may include any materialcapable of absorbing vibration. In some embodiments, the one or morecompliant dampening blocks 402 include a polymer. For example, the oneor more compliant dampening blocks 402 may include a flexible polymer.In one example, the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 includepolyurethane foam, thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”), including but notlimited to Styrenic block copolymers (TPE-s), Polyolefin blends (TPE-o),Elastomeric alloys (TPE-v or TPV), Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU),Thermoplastic copolyester, or Thermoplastic polyamide. In anotherexample, the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 may includepolyvinyl chloride (PVC), low durometer PVC, or a urethane.

The gearbox 404, in one embodiment, includes the gear member 304 and thereciprocator 310. The gearbox 404 may provide mounting points for thegear member 304 and the reciprocator 310. The gearbox 404 may restrictthe motion of the gear member 304 and the reciprocator to certaindirections or rotational axes. The gearbox 404 may be mounted to thehousing 101. In some embodiments, the gearbox 404 is separated from thehousing 101 by the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402.

As is shown in FIGS. 11C and 12, in some embodiments, the actuatedoutput 108 and associated components are rotatable relative to thehousing 101. The actuated output 108 may rotate relative to the housing101 around an output rotation axis. In certain embodiments, the outputrotation axis is parallel to the gear rotation axis 316. In oneembodiment, the output rotation axis is concomitant with the gearrotation axis 316. For example, the actuated output 108, thereciprocator 310, and the reciprocator interface 308 may be selectivelyrotatable around the gear rotation axis 316.

In one embodiment, rotation of the actuated output 108 may beselectively locked and unlocked by a user. For example, the user mayunlock rotation of the actuated output 108, rotate the actuated output108 to a desired position relative to the housing 101, lock rotation ofthe actuated output 108, and operate the reciprocating treatment device100.

As shown in FIG. 12 in a preferred embodiment, the rotation assembly 47includes the rotation housing 44 (which includes first and secondrotation housing halves 44 a and 44 b), an articulation lock or a button46 having teeth 48 thereon and a spring 18 that contacts seating surface43. The gear member 304, reciprocator shaft 310, axle 16, a portion ofthe gear box 404, and bearing 14 are all housed in the rotation housing44. The assembly also includes a gear box cover 56 and dampening ring52. Button 46 is outwardly biased by spring 18 to a position where teeth48 are engaged with teeth 50 defined in housing 101. The button 46 ismovable between a first position where teeth 48 are engaged with teeth50 and a second position where teeth 48 are engaged with teeth 54 in thesecond rotation housing half 44 b. When the button 46 is in the firstposition, the rotation assembly 47 cannot rotate. When the button ispushed to the second position, the teeth 48 disengage from teeth 50 andengage the teeth 54 in the rotation housing 44, thereby allowing theentire rotation assembly 47 to rotate. The rotation housing 44 includesa main body portion 62 disposed in the housing and an arm portion 64extending through the rotation space 60 and outside the housing. The armportion 64 rotates within the rotation space 60 defined in the housing101. It will be appreciated, that when rotation occurs, gear member 304and gear box 404 do not rotate (compare FIGS. 11A-11D to FIG. 11E), butthe containment member 308 together with the actuated output 108 dorotate. As shown in FIGS. 8, 9 and 12, the housing 101 includes a bulgeportion 150 having a first bulge portion surface 150 a positioned on afirst side of a plane that bifurcates the housing 101 (referred toherein as the “housing plane”) and a second bulge portion surface 150 bpositioned on a second side of the housing plane. The handle 120includes a first handle side surface 120 b positioned on the first sideof the housing plane and a second handle side surface 120 c positionedon the second side of the housing plane. The first bulge portion surface150 a is located further from the housing plane than the first handleside surface 120 b and the second bulge portion surface 150 b is locatedfurther from the housing plane than the second handle side surface 120c.

FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart diagram showing one embodiment of a method ofmanufacture of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are flowchart diagrams depicting embodiments of a method500 for manufacturing the reciprocating treatment device 100 of FIG. 1and a method 600 of use of the reciprocating treatment device 100 ofFIG. 1. The methods 500, 600 are, in certain embodiments, methods of useof the system and apparatus described herein, and will be discussed withreference to those figures. Nevertheless, the methods 500, 600 may alsobe conducted independently thereof and are not intended to be limitedspecifically to the specific embodiments discussed above with respect tothose figures.

As shown in FIG. 5, a method of manufacture 500 for a reciprocatingtreatment device 100 is shown. In one embodiment of the method ofmanufacture 500, a housing 101 is provided 502. The housing 101 mayinclude a handle 120 and the handle 120 may define a handle axis 122. Amotor 106 is connected 504 to the housing 101. The motor 106 may providerotary motion.

In some embodiments, an actuated output 108 is operably connected 506 tothe motor 106. The actuated output 108 may reciprocate in response toactivation of the motor 106. Reciprocation of the actuated output 108may be along a reciprocation axis 124.

In some embodiments, the motor 106 includes a shaft 116. The shaft 116may rotate around a shaft rotation axis 126. The shaft rotation axis 126may be parallel to a plane in which the handle axis 122 and thereciprocation axis 124 are located.

As shown in FIG. 6, a method of use 600 for a reciprocating treatmentdevice 100 is shown. In one embodiment of the method of use 600, a forceis applied 602 to a body part by an actuated output 108 of thereciprocal treatment device 100. The reciprocal treatment device 100 mayinclude a housing 101. The housing 101 may include a handle 120 disposedon the housing 101. The handle 120 may define a handle axis 122.

The reciprocal treatment device 100 may also include a motor 106connected to the housing 101. An actuated output 108 may be operablyconnected to the motor 106. The actuated output 108 may be configured toreciprocate in response to activation of the motor 106. Reciprocation ofthe actuated output 108 may be along a reciprocation axis 124.

The motor 106 may include a shaft 116 having a shaft rotation axis 126.The shaft rotation axis 126 may be parallel to a plane in which thehandle axis 122 and the reciprocation axis 124 are located.

FIGS. 14-27 show further embodiments of the present invention. Many ofthe components of the reciprocal treatment devices or percussive massagedevices of FIGS. 14-27 are the same or similar as those discussed abovewith respect to reciprocal treatment device 100. Accordingly, thedescription hereinafter focuses on components that are different.

FIGS. 14-23 show an embodiment of a percussive massage device 212 thatincludes a rechargeable battery (and replaceable or removable battery)114. Device 212 is referred to commercially as the G3PRO. As shown inFIGS. 14-15, in a preferred embodiment, the percussive massage device212 includes three handle portions (referred to herein as first handleportion 143, second handle portion 145 and third handle portion 147)that cooperate to define a central or handle opening 149. All of thehandle portions are long enough that they are configured such that aperson can grasp that particular handle portion to utilize the device.The ability to grasp the different handle portions allows a person (whenusing the device on their own body) to use the device on different bodyparts and from different angles, thus providing the ability to reachbody parts, such as the back, that might not be possible without thethree handle portions.

As shown in FIG. 14, the first handle portion 143 defines a first handleportion axis A1, the second handle portion 145 defines a second handleportion axis A2 and the third handle portion 147 defines a third handleportion axis A3 that cooperate to form a triangle. In a preferredembodiment, the battery 114 is housed in the second handle portion 145and the motor 106 is housed in the third handle portion 147.

FIGS. 16-18 show a user's hand grasping the various handle portions. Thelength of each of the first, second and third handle portions is longenough so that a person with a large hand can comfortably grasp eachhandle portion with at least three to four fingers extending through thehandle opening, as shown in FIGS. 16-18. In a preferred embodiment, thefirst handle portion 143 has an interior edge 143 a, the second handleportion 145 has an interior edge 145 a and the third handle portion 147has an interior edge 147 a, which all cooperate to at least partiallydefine the handle opening 149. As shown in FIG. 14, in a preferredembodiment, the first handle portion 143 includes a finger protrusion151 that includes a finger surface 151 a that extends between theinterior edge 143 a of the first handle portion and the interior edge147 a of the third handle portion 147 and at least partially defines thehandle opening 149. As shown in FIG. 16, in use, a user can place theirindex finger against the finger surface 151 a. The finger protrusion andsurface provide a feedback point or support surface such that when auser places their index finger against the surface it helps the userwith control and comfort of using the device. In a preferred embodiment,at least a portion of the finger surface 151 a is straight, as shown inFIG. 14 (as opposed to the other “corners” of the handle opening 149being rounded.

FIG. 14A shows the preferred dimensions of the interior surfaces of thehandle opening 149. It will be appreciated that the interior surfacescomprise a series of flat and curved surfaces. H1 is the dimension ofthe interior edge 143 a of the first handle portion 143 (the firsthandle portion length). H2 is the dimension of the interior edge 145 aof the second handle portion 145 f (the second handle portion length).H3 is the dimension of the interior edge 147 a of the third handleportion 147 (the third handle portion length). H4 is the dimension ofthe finger surface 151 a (the finger protrusion length). R1 is thedimension of the radius between interior edges 143 a and 145 a and R2 isthe dimension of the radius between interior edges 145 a and 147 a. In apreferred embodiment, H1 is about 94 mm, H2 is about 66 mm, H3 is about96 mm, H4 is about 12 mm, R1 is about 6.5 mm and R2 is about 6.5 mm,which provides an arc length of about 10.2 mm. In the context herein,“about” is within 5 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the length of theinterior edge of the handle opening is about 289 mm. The length of theinterior edge of the handle opening can be between about 260 mm andabout 320 mm, with any combination of H1, H2, H3, H4, R1 and R2. It willbe appreciated that these dimensions are optimized so that a 95thpercentile male can grip any of the three handle portions with at leastthree and preferably four fingers extending through the handle openingto utilize the device. It will be appreciated that any or all ofsurfaces R1 and R2 can be considered a part of any of the three adjacenthandle portions. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 14A, with the finger surface151 a being straight, the first handle portion interior surface, secondhandle portion interior surface, third handle portion interior surfaceand finger surface cooperate to define a quadrilateral with radii orrounded edges between each of the straight surfaces.

Device 212 also includes multiple speed settings (preferably 1500 and2400 RPM, but can be any speed or frequency taught herein). Furthermore,those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that although the RPMis listed as a specific number that, due to manufacturing tolerances,the RPM may oscillate during use. For example, at the 2400 RPM settingthe RPM may actually oscillate between 2260 and 2640.

FIGS. 19-23 show some of the interior and exterior components that areincluded in the treatment devices 212 (208 and 210) shown in FIGS. 14-18and 24-27. As shown in FIG. 19, the percussive massage device 212includes a housing 101 that is comprised of first and second housinghalves 103. Outer covers 213 and top cover 215 are received on andconnected to the first and second housing halves 103, via tabs 105 orother mechanism or attachment method (e.g., threaded fasteners, clips,adhesive, sonic welding, etc.). The percussive massage device 212 alsoincludes a tambour door 217, battery 114, inner suspension rings 219 androtation housing 44 (with first and second rotation housing halves 44 aand 44 b) that houses the gearbox 404.

As shown in FIG. 20, the device includes a pinion coupling assembly 216(similar to the compliant shaft damper 302 described above) that isdisposed between the motor and the pinion shaft or shaft gear 117(located on the shaft or pinion shaft 116). The pinion coupling assembly216 is used to couple the motor to the gearbox so that the torque isfully transmitted, such that there is no radial movement and thevibrations and noise are minimized. The pinion coupling assembly 216preferably includes three separate components, a lower connector 218, across coupling 220 and an upper connector 222. In a preferredembodiment, the lower connector 218 includes a main body portion 218 athat defines a central opening 218 b that receives the motor shaft 248and first and second lower connector arms 218 c extending outwardly fromthe main body portion 218 a. The upper connector 222 includes a mainbody portion 222 a that defines a central opening 222 b that receivesthe pinion shaft 117 and first and second upper connector arms 222 cextending outwardly from the main body portion 222 a. Preferably, thecross coupling 220 includes radially extending ribs 220 a that definechannels 220 b therebetween. The first and second lower connector arms218 c and the first and second upper connector arms 222 c are sized andshaped to be received in the channels 220 b to operatively engage theradially extending ribs. In use, the motor shaft 248 rotates the pinioncoupling assembly, which rotates the pinion shaft 117. These componentswork together to reduce noise and vibration. In a preferred embodiment,the lower and upper connectors are made of plastic and the crosscoupling is made of an elastomer. In a preferred embodiment, the crosscoupling 220 is made of rubber that includes a hardness where vibrationsgenerated by the motor are isolated while keeping the strength andtransmitting the torque efficiently (without significant energydissipation). However, the materials are not a limitation on the presentinvention.

In a preferred embodiment, the pinion shaft 116 is received in andextends through bearings 224 and 225. Preferably, bearing 224 includesball bearings (and provides radial support) and bearing 225 includesneedle bearings (and provides radial support, but can withstand highertemperatures). The pinion coupling assembly 216 is housed in motor mount250, which is connected to the motor 106 and through which the motorshaft 248 extends. The motor mount 250 is connected to the gear boxmount 252, as shown in FIG. 22.

As shown in FIGS. 20-22, the gearbox 404, in one embodiment, includesthe gear member 304 and the reciprocator or push rod 230/310.Preferably, the gear member 304 includes a shaft 246 extending therefromto which the reciprocator 310 is connected. The gearbox 404 may providemounting points for the gear member 304 and the reciprocator 310. Thegearbox 404 may restrict the motion of the gear member 304 and thereciprocator to certain directions or rotational axes. The gearbox 404may be mounted to the housing 101. In some embodiments, the gearbox 404is separated from the housing 101 by the one or more compliant dampeningblocks 402.

As shown in FIGS. 19 and 21, in a preferred embodiment, to prevent thegearbox from transmitting vibrations to the housing a rubber cover canbe provided. Further inner suspension rings 219 isolate vibration of thegearbox from handle and the treatment structures. Preferably, the rings219 are made of an elastomer and act as a cushion to dampen vibrationsbetween the rotation housing and the housing 101. In a preferredembodiment, the inner suspension rings 219 surround the outer radialsurface of the main body portion 62 (see seat surface 523 in FIG. 21).

In one embodiment, rotation of the actuated output or shaft 108 may beselectively locked and unlocked by a user. For example, the user mayunlock rotation of the shaft 108, rotate the actuated output 108 to adesired position relative to the housing 101, lock rotation of theactuated output 108, and operate the reciprocating treatment device 100.FIG. 21 shows the components that allow rotation of the rotation housing44 together with the push rod assembly 108 and related components.Button 515 includes radially extending teeth 515 a and is biasedoutwardly by spring 519, which surrounds and is seated on spacer 518(which is preferably made of foam). Spring 519 is seated againstdampening members 520 and 517, which are preferably made of rubber todampen any vibrations of the spring 519. The assembly also includes agear box cover 525 and dampening ring 521. Button 515 is outwardlybiased by spring 519 to a position where teeth 515 a are engaged withteeth 516 a, which are defined hoop 516, which is connected to housing101. Preferably hoop 516 includes inner and outer plastic rings 516 band 516 c that sandwich a rubber ring 516 d therebetween to help dampenvibrations and reduce noise. The button 515 is movable between a firstposition where teeth 515 a are engaged with teeth 516 a and a secondposition where teeth 515 are not engaged with teeth 516 a. When thebutton 515 is in the first position, the rotation assembly 47 cannotrotate. When the button is pushed to the second position, the teeth 515a disengage from teeth 516 a, thereby allowing the entire rotationassembly 47 to rotate. The rotation housing 44 includes a main bodyportion 62 disposed in the housing and an arm portion 64 extendingthrough the rotation space 60 and outside the housing. The arm portion64 rotates within the rotation space 60 defined in the housing 101. Asshown in FIG. 15, in a preferred embodiment, the device 212 includes atambour door 217 that unfolds within the rotation space 60 as therotation assembly is moved from the position shown in FIG. 14 to theposition shown in FIG. 15. The tambour door 217 covers slot 214. Asshown in FIG. 15, an arm cover 524 covers the arm portion 64 of therotation housing 44.

As shown in FIG. 22, the gearbox housing 404 includes a clearance slot214 defined therein for the push rod assembly 108. The slot 214 isprovided so the push rod assembly 108 can move freely and allow therotation housing 44 to articulate. The clearance slot 214 has first andsecond ends 214 a and 214 b. As shown in FIG. 22, the push rod assembly108 extends through the clearance slot 214. it will be appreciated thatwhen the rotation housing 44 is rotated from a first position to asecond position the push rod assembly 108 moves within the clearanceslot 214 from the first end to the second end thereof.

As shown in FIGS. 21-23, in a preferred embodiment, the pushrod assemblyor output shaft 108 includes two halves or rods with an adapter member226 therebetween to also help reduce noise and vibration. The adaptermember 226 isolates the vibrations generated in the gearbox and preventsthem from being transmitted down the shaft to the treatment structure.The adapter member 226 can include anti-rotation tabs to protect thepush rod from user applied torque during use. The first rod portion 230of the output shaft 108 (push rod or reciprocator 310) includes anopening 232 on an end thereof that receives a pivot pin 234. Theconnection between the first rod portion 230 and the adapter member 226includes a bushing 227 with the pin 234 and elastomeric material todampen vibrations. The end of first rod portion 230 that includesopening 232 is received in a pocket 229 in adapter member 226. The pin234 extends through openings in the side walls of adapter member 226,through bushing 227 and through opening 232, to secure first rod portion230 to adapter member 226. Adapter member 226 includes a protrusion 231extending therefrom that is received in an opening 233 in an end of thesecond rod portion 236, to connect the adapter member 226 to the secondrod portion 236. In another embodiment, the end of the second rodportion 236 can be received in an opening in the adapter member 226. Inuse, the size of the top opening of pocket 229 allows the first rodportion to move side to side as the opening 232 pivots on pin 234 andfirst rod portion 231 reciprocates. This translates to linearreciprocation of second rod portion 236. Because the bushing 227comprises at least some elastomeric material, vibrations are dampened(and noise reduced) as the push rod assembly 108 reciprocates.

Ring 526 is seated on and surrounds the bottom portion of the armportion 64 (see seat 64 a in FIG. 21) to help hold the first and secondhousing halves 44 a and 44 b together. Washer or guide member 527 isreceived in the rotation housing 44 and provides stability and a pathfor the reciprocating push rod assembly or output shaft 108.

As shown in FIG. 22, in this embodiment, the first rod portion 230 orpush rod assembly 108 extends through clearance slot 214. It will beappreciated that the term pushrod assembly includes any of theembodiments described herein and can include a shaft with an adaptermember allowing pivoting between two halves or can include a singleshaft that does not include any pivoting.

As shown in FIGS. 22-23, in a preferred embodiment, the male connector110 includes an alignment tab 497 above each ball that mates with a slotin the female opening. These tabs 497 help with proper alignment withthe treatment structure. See U.S. Patent App. No. 2019/0017528, theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIGS. 24-29 show embodiments of percussive massage devices similar topercussive massage device 212 above, but without a rotation assembly.Device 208, shown in FIGS. 24-27 is referred to commercially as the G3.Device 210, shown in FIGS. 28-29 is referred to commercially as the LIV.As is shown in FIG. 26, in a preferred embodiment, switch 104 includesswitch electronics 575 associated therewith. The switch electronics 575may include a printed circuit board (PCB) and other components to allowthe switch 104 to activate the motor 106 and to change the speed of themotor, turn the device on and off, among other tasks. As shown in FIG.26, in a preferred embodiment, the the motor 106 is housed in the thirdhandle portion 147, the battery 114 is housed in the second handleportion 145 and the switch electronics 575 are housed in the firsthandle portion 143. This configuration also applies to devices 210 and212. FIG. 27 shows cushion members 577 that surround the gearbox 404 andhelp dampen and reduce noise and vibration generated by the componentsin the gearbox. Cushion members 577 are similar to inner suspensionrings 219 in device 212. However, cushion members 577 are thicker and donot need to rotate due to the exclusion of the rotation housing indevices 208 and 210. Cushion members 577 include cutouts or channels 579therein to allow clearance of components such as the push rod assemblyand pinion shaft.

Although the operations of the method(s) herein are shown and describedin a particular order, the order of the operations of each method may bealtered so that certain operations may be performed in an inverse orderor so that certain operations may be performed, at least in part,concurrently with other operations. In another embodiment, instructionsor sub-operations of distinct operations may be implemented in anintermittent and/or alternating manner.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling,either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling ofconnection between the elements can be physical, logical, or acombination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,”and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall referto this application as a whole and not to any particular portions ofthis application. Where the context permits, words in the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or pluralnumber may also include the plural or singular number respectively. Theword “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of thefollowing interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, allof the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise formdisclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for thedisclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of thedisclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. Forexample, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order,alternative embodiments may perform routines having steps, or employsystems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes orblocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/ormodified to provide alternative or subcombinations. Each of theseprocesses or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways.Also, while processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed inseries, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel,or may be performed, at different times. Further any specific numbersnoted herein are only examples: alternative implementations may employdiffering values or ranges.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise formdisclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for thedisclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of thedisclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples:alternative implementations may employ differing values, measurements orranges. It will be appreciated that any dimensions given herein are onlyexemplary and that none of the dimensions or descriptions are limitingon the present invention.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to othersystems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements andacts of the various embodiments described above can be combined toprovide further embodiments.

Any patents and applications and other references noted above, includingany that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can bemodified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and conceptsof the various references described above to provide yet furtherembodiments of the disclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of theabove Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the abovedescription describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, anddescribes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the aboveappears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details ofthe system may vary considerably in its implementation details, whilestill being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As notedabove, particular terminology used when describing certain features oraspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that theterminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specificcharacteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which thatterminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the followingclaims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines suchterms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses notonly the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways ofpracticing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certainclaim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of thedisclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only oneaspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as ameans-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied ina computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35U.S.C. § 112, ¶6 will begin with the words “means for”). Accordingly,the applicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filingthe application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspectsof the disclosure.

Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have beenshown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms usedherein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes,modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinaryskill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A percussive massage device comprising: ahousing, wherein the housing includes first, second and third handleportions that cooperate to at least partially define a handle opening,wherein the first handle portion defines a first axis, the second handleportion defines a second axis and the third handle portion defines athird axis, wherein the first handle portion is generally straight,wherein the second handle portion is generally straight, and wherein thethird handle portion is generally straight, such that a user can graspany of the first, second or third handle portions independently to usethe percussive massage device, an electrical source, a motor positionedin the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rodassembly operatively connected to the motor and configured toreciprocate in response to activation of the motor.
 2. The percussivemassage device of claim 1 wherein the first handle portion includes afirst handle portion interior edge and defines a first handle portionlength, wherein the first handle portion length is long enough that whena user grasps the first handle portion with a hand at least a portion ofthree fingers extend through the handle opening and contact the firsthandle portion interior edge, wherein the second handle portion includesa second handle portion interior edge and defines a second handleportion length, wherein the second handle portion length is long enoughthat when a user grasps the second handle portion with a hand at least aportion of three fingers extend through the handle opening and contactthe second handle portion interior edge, wherein the third handleportion includes a third handle portion interior edge and defines athird handle portion length, wherein the third handle portion length islong enough that when a user grasps the third handle portion with a handat least a portion of three fingers extend through the handle openingand contact the third handle portion interior edge.
 3. The percussivemassage device of claim 1 wherein the first, second and third axescooperate to form a triangle that surrounds the handle opening.
 4. Thepercussive massage device of claim 1 wherein the first, second and thirdhandle portions are oriented such that a user can grasp any of thefirst, second or third handle portions independently with a single handto use the percussive massage device at a plurality of different angles.5. The percussive massage device of claim 1 wherein the housing definesa housing length, wherein at least a portion of the handle openingextends forwardly of half the housing length.
 6. The percussive massagedevice of claim 1 wherein a transverse plane that bifurcates the housingextends through the handle opening.
 7. A method of using a percussivemassage device, the method comprising the steps of: obtaining thepercussive massage device, wherein the percussive massage deviceincludes a housing that includes first, second and third handle portionsthat cooperate to at least partially define a handle opening, anelectrical source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch foractivating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected tothe motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of themotor, wherein the first handle portion defines a first axis, the secondhandle portion defines a second axis and the third handle portiondefines a third axis, wherein the first handle portion is generallystraight, wherein the second handle portion is generally straight, andwherein the third handle portion is generally straight, activating themotor using the switch, grasping the first handle portion, massaging afirst body part, grasping the second handle portion and massaging thefirst body part or a second body part, and grasping the third handleportion and massaging the first body part, a second body part or a thirdbody part.
 8. The method of claim 7 wherein the first handle portionincludes a first handle portion interior edge and defines a first handleportion length, wherein the first handle portion length is long enoughthat when a user grasps the first handle portion with a hand at least aportion of three fingers extend through the handle opening and contactthe first handle portion interior edge, wherein the second handleportion includes a second handle portion interior edge and defines asecond handle portion length, wherein the second handle portion lengthis long enough that when a user grasps the second handle portion with ahand at least a portion of three fingers extend through the handleopening and contact the second handle portion interior edge, wherein thethird handle portion includes a third handle portion interior edge anddefines a third handle portion length, wherein the third handle portionlength is long enough that when a user grasps the third handle portionwith a hand at least a portion of three fingers extend through thehandle opening and contact the third handle portion interior edge. 9.The method of claim 7 further comprising the steps of: grasping thesecond handle portion, massaging a second body part, grasping the thirdhandle portion, and massaging a third body part.
 10. The method of claim7 wherein the step of grasping the first handle portion includesgrasping the first handle portion using a first hand, wherein the stepof grasping the second handle portion includes reorienting thepercussive massage device, grasping the second handle portion using thefirst hand and massaging the first body part or a second body part, andwherein the step of grasping the third handle portion includesreorienting the percussive massage device, grasping the third handleportion using the first hand and massaging the first body part, a secondbody part or a third body part.
 11. The percussive massage device ofclaim 7 wherein the first, second and third axes cooperate to form atriangle that surrounds the handle opening.
 12. A percussive massagedevice comprising: a housing, wherein the housing includes first, secondand third handle portions that cooperate to at least partially define ahandle opening, wherein the first handle portion defines a first axis,the second handle portion defines a second axis and the third handleportion defines a third axis, wherein the first handle portion isgenerally straight, wherein the second handle portion is generallystraight, and wherein the third handle portion is generally straight,such that a user can grasp any of the first, second or third handleportions independently to use the percussive massage device, wherein thefirst handle portion includes a first handle portion interior edge anddefines a first handle portion length, wherein the first handle portionlength is long enough that when a user grasps the first handle portionwith a hand at least a portion of three fingers extend through thehandle opening and contact the first handle portion interior edge,wherein the second handle portion includes a second handle portioninterior edge and defines a second handle portion length, wherein thesecond handle portion length is long enough that when a user grasps thesecond handle portion with a hand at least a portion of three fingersextend through the handle opening and contact the second handle portioninterior edge, wherein the third handle portion includes a third handleportion interior edge and defines a third handle portion length, whereinthe third handle portion length is long enough that when a user graspsthe third handle portion with a hand at least a portion of three fingersextend through the handle opening and contact the third handle portioninterior edge, and wherein the housing defines a housing length, whereinat least a portion of the handle opening extends forwardly of half thehousing length, an electrical source, a motor positioned in the housing,a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operativelyconnected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response toactivation of the motor.
 13. The percussive massage device of claim 12wherein the first, second and third handle portions are oriented suchthat a user can grasp any of the first, second or third handle portionsindependently with a single hand to use the percussive massage device ata plurality of different angles.
 14. The percussive massage device ofclaim 13 wherein the first, second and third axes cooperate to form atriangle that surrounds the handle opening.